STATEHOUSE (Jan. 29, 2025) – The House Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee advanced State Rep. Mark Genda's (R-Frankfort) legislation to allow for a more ecofriendly option for dissolution of remains after death.
According to the Cremation Association of North America, a typical cremation releases about 534 pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. House Bill 1044 would allow the use of alkaline hydrolysis for the dissolution of human remains using water, a chemical solution and heat as an ecofriendly option for cremation.
"Indiana has always relied on the standard cremation and traditional burial options that have been around for years," Genda said. "By allowing alkaline hydrolysis as a greener alternative to cremation, we could expand after-death options for Hoosiers and meet their desire for lower environmental impact."
Cremation is currently the leading after-death option for Americans, with a National Funeral Directors Association study showing more than 61% of the population choosing cremation over traditional burial in 2024. In the same study, 68% of Americans expressed interest in green funeral options to reduce their environmental footprint, something that is limited in Indiana's funeral industry.
According to Bio-Response Solutions, a manufacturer of alkaline hydrolysis equipment in Indiana, the process has no direct emissions of greenhouse gases or mercury while using 90% less energy compared to traditional cremation.
House Bill 1044 now heads to the Indiana House of Representatives for consideration. To learn more and follow legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) represents House District 41,
which includes portions of Boone, Clinton, Montgomery and Tippecanoe counties.
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